I thought I'd start a new thread as Andyp and me have exchanged a few PM's. Cheers Andy - diamond geezer!
As we probably all know, this year is the 70th anniversary of the D-Day Landings and the 100th anniversary of the start of WW1.
Susan (Mrs P) and me are planning a trip to France next year (June/July) after experiencing one day on The Somme earlier this year. Although Sue has been there before, it was my first time. I don't know the word(s) to describe the feeling I experienced when I was there, but I said very little. I've always been interested and felt a great respect to all those who were involved in both World Wars, possibly more WW2 and especially D-Day. But as we approached the 100th anniversary of WW1 last year, I started to show a bigger interest and have since watched many documentaries and of course, a brief visit to The Somme this year. I've also learnt that Sue's great uncle (her mother's mother's brother) was killed in action during the Battle of The Somme - September 1916. His name is one of the names inscribed into the majestic Thiepval Memorial - just one of 72,195 missing. Or rather, unrecognisable due to probably being blown apart on 'No Man's Land'.
This has inspired us both so much that we're going back next year and during the same trip, we're going to explore Normandy Beaches as well.
I've also recently learned my great grandfather (on mother's side) was involved in Gallipoli's campaign and I'm still trying to find out whether he was moved onto The Somme as well. I read parts of the regiment (still learning the terminology of the British Army) were transferred to France before The Battle(s) of The Somme began. He did however survive the war - I wouldn't be here if he didn't.
Plus, my grandfather (on father's side) joined up in 1940 and after serving 3 commando raids (one in Norway), he received his commission and was then sent to Europe (not sure for how long or where), but after this, he was then sent to India and was killed in action in Burma 7th April 1944. I now have some of the letters he wrote to his brother during his time in Burma (my great uncle Joseph who I remember pretty well) and they're very moving and I feel very proud. Reading the letter the C/O sent to my grandmother after grandfather was killed is also quite something.
Anyway, point of this thread... Well, I expect we all have a relative who had an involvement in either wars. So let's share some stories...
By the way, when I was breaking my soul on that recent (blasphemy blasphemy) stair project, there were a couple of times when I reminded myself of what these guys went through to give us our today - making me feel so futile to be moaning about a difficult project. No comparison whatsoever.
It's very sad for all those who perished and sad for those who survived and had to return back to society with such demons in their souls and minds.
I raise my glass!!
Cheers,